Team size: 25 between Switzerland and China   

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?  

In managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, my approach is founded on proactive risk management and seamless integration with the broader business strategy of VF Corporation. This strategy ensures that our organisation not only withstands challenges but also emerges stronger and more prepared for future uncertainties.  

Anticipating potential legal issues is crucial. This involves regular assessments of our operational environments across EMEA & APAC, identifying areas susceptible to instability such as supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, or geopolitical tensions. By establishing preemptive legal and contractual safeguards, we minimise exposure to risks. 

Furthermore, the legal strategy is deeply integrated with the broader business objectives of VF Corporation. Regular communication with other business units allows the legal department to fully understand and align with the company’s goals and strategies. This alignment is vital as it ensures that all legal actions support overarching business continuity plans. 

Ultimately, our legal strategy is not just about protecting the organisation from legal harm; it is about enabling VF Corporation to thrive in the face of challenges by being legally astute, aligned with business needs, and resilient in our approach. This method has proven effective in not only safeguarding but also empowering the business, ensuring stability and fostering growth even during periods of significant global uncertainty.  

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?  

Emerging technologies are transforming the legal profession, streamlining operations, and enhancing the delivery of legal services. In my view, two key technologies are particularly significant for their potential impact in the near future: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics. 

AI is reshaping the way legal research, contract review, and due diligence are conducted. AI-powered tools can analyse vast amounts of data with speed and accuracy that surpass human capabilities. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces the likelihood of human error. AI applications in legal are also becoming very quickly sophisticated enough to be a game-changer in how legal advice is formulated. 

Data analytics: As said, the ability to analyse large datasets to extract meaningful insights is increasingly critical in the legal field. Data analytics enable better risk management by identifying patterns and predicting potential legal issues before they arise. 

As a consequence of the foregoing, keeping abreast of these technological advancements involves a multi-faceted approach. Personally, I engage regularly with professional legal and tech networks and attend relevant conferences and seminars that focus on the intersection of technology and law. 

By integrating these technologies into our practice and staying informed about ongoing developments, we not only enhance our operational efficiencies but also provide more strategic, data-driven legal advice to VF Corporation and maintain a competitive edge in the legal landscape.